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Michigan Science Center Partners with Detroit Thermal

DETROIT — The Michigan Science Center received approval last week from the Michigan Public Service Commission for Detroit Thermal, owner and operator of the Detroit district steam system, to continue providing renewable energy to the science center.

DT’s energy-efficient technology will allow the science center to focus on its operational needs without diverting resources to maintain on site heating systems. This technology, along with DT’s dependability, made DT the ideal candidate to serve the science center into the future, with a three-year contract.

Said Jim Issner, Michigan Science Center executive director: “As one of Detroit’s cultural touchstones, the Michigan Science Center is committed to the intelligent revitalization of our city. By engaging Detroit Thermal, we are working alongside an organization that shares our long-term goals for the region. This partnership will allow the science center to become more efficient in its operations by employing clean, safe steam energy from renewable resources.”

Detroit Thermal’s steam distribution system has been in operation since 1903 and has provided the science center with district energy since it moved downtown in 1978. Leadership of the (then-named) Detroit Science Center felt innovative district energy aligned well with the dynamic building design and sense of community responsibility first established by master architect William Kessler. During the facility’s downturn, DT worked actively with the transition team to protect its assets.

“We are committed to the revitalization of Detroit and applaud those businesses that are investing in this city’s future,” said Rick Pucak, president of Detroit Thermal. “The Michigan Science Center is one of many local businesses that sees the benefit of renewable energy and is willing to act on this commitment as a real and tangible example of the center’s ‘Green Community’ exhibit.”

As a key component of Detroit’s energy infrastructure and economic renewal, DT now serves more than 145 buildings throughout the developing area. This agreement will also further DT’s goal to bring sustainable and meaningful economic opportunities to the city of Detroit.